A spine specialist told me today that I have 3 severely herniated discs in the lower lumbar. This is normal wear and tear, but is more advanced at my age because of my height, the length of my spine (my in-seam is average size), and my higher than average upper body mass.
This has caused nerve cell loss in the spinal cord. Although discs can regenerate, these nerve cells do not regenerate. The damage is permanent.
I will be getting a cortisone shot to the spine on 21 AUG.
This is just for pain relief - it will not slow down the degeneration.
Losing weight will help - My wieght increased to 305 since I moved to Texas, but is now at 285. I have been real good about avoiding junk food since I got back from Jennie's wedding.
I also will start Pilates again - using muscles to support my weight will slow the degeneration. It is all due to the weight of my upper body (and the sedentary career I choose).
I have considered having a brainectomy to lessen upper body mass, but decided that I really do enjoy thinking, so I won't do that...
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